Don't jump without looking of course, rather find a senior enlisted or an O you trust within your chain that has bought few homes with VA loans and ask them for some guidance. 

I figured this would be a good place to get some advice, insight and guidance from the professionals. 

In my scenario above, I directly went talking to a senior VP.

Just to hear some different professional opinions here, what would be your next step if you want to grow but also reduce debt?

Thus, I'd like to use a professional.)Last fall, I sought bids for snow removal (shoveling/blowing walkways - no plowing) and to those that bothered to respond, I got ridiculous prices back ($150-$225 per trip; it takes an hour total to shovel all the properties, including travel time between).This spring, I am seeking lawn maintenance bids and I am experiencing the same thing; outrageous (in my opinion) prices for the work involved.  

The agent I am working with is a good value, because she pays for all the professional photos and also for the staging, which does seem to make a difference, I must admit. 

I am not a professional photographer, but I can do a pictures of your properties for you for free.Basically looking for a connections and an experience, not the money.

Some exceptions are seniors who do not need more space or college town with students.Rest of population tends to outgrow the space quickly. 

@Craig Lessler there is not a very good chance you can do anything about it right now but if you get a good tax appeal professional they may be able to go back more than a year but I cant be sure.

Having the professionals do the hard stuff thou, electricity, AC, plumbing, etc. 3.